Colonial Market Days

The Colonial Market Days event in Lebanon, Indiana, is a two-day historical reenactment festival held at Abner Longley Park on October 25-26, 2025. It features entertainment, traditional artisans and craftspeople, food, music, military reenactments, and a historical church service on Sunday, with all participants dressed in authentic 18th-century attire.

Surrounding Area and Event Vibe:
Abner Longley Park is the setting for this lively event where the air is filled with the sights and sounds of an 18th-century market and military camp. The atmosphere is immersive, family-friendly, and educational, with a strong focus on historical authenticity. Visitors experience a step back in time surrounded by reenactors in period clothing, traditional crafts, merchants selling colonial-era goods, and live performances, creating a vibrant colonial village vibe.

Activities and Attractions:

• Colonial Merchants and Craftspeople: Artisans and demonstrators from across the Midwest display and sell their handcrafted goods, bringing colonial trades and crafts alive with demonstrations.
• Military and Militia Encampments: Military units camp in the park, demonstrating soldier and camp follower life of the 18th century. Visitors can learn about historical warfare, equipment, and daily camp life.
• Battle Reenactments: Afternoon battles showcase Revolutionary War tactics with lively military reenactments. Saturday features an evening tactical battle with more intense demonstrations.
• Entertainment: The event includes jugglers, street performers, magic shows, and continuous musical performances playing period music, turning the market into a stage for 18th-century-themed entertainment.
• Historical Church Service: On Sunday, there is a church service conducted in colonial style, adding a spiritual and cultural dimension to the event.

Schedule Highlights (Approximate):

• Both Days (Oct 25-26): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (4:00 PM close on Sunday) for general market, artisans, military units, entertainment, and reenactments.
• Saturday Evening: Special tactical military reenactment battle held in the evening.
• Sunday: Historical church service and continued market and entertainment activities.

History and Founding:
Colonial Market Days was established as an event to celebrate and educate the public about 18th-century colonial life through authentic re-enactment and artisan craftsmanship. Over time, it has grown into a well-regarded festival drawing reenactors and historical craftspeople from across the Midwest, supported by the local Lebanon community and Boone County. This event integrates historical education with entertainment, fostering appreciation for colonial American history and culture.

Admission requires a fee, and the event is accessible at Abner Longley Park in Lebanon, Indiana. It is organized to maintain historical accuracy and provide engaging educational experiences for all ages.

This event presents a comprehensive colonial marketplace and encampment experience, combining history, arts, crafts, entertainment, and military education in an authentic 18th-century setting.